Sometimes, you may feel like you're at the center of it all, for better or for worse. When you're dealing with depression, it can feel like the world is out to make you sad. When you have a life change, you may feel like life is against you. It can be difficult to get out of that mindset, but a counselor based in National City can help you. 

National City has a motto that is known as “In the Center of it All.” You can learn how to realize how to be in the center of everything good in life, and a counselor can help. 

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Nicole Forester

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC,MT-BC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
16 years of experience

Hello - My name is Nicole Forester . I welcome you. I recognize the energy it takes to seek support. What I can offer is non-judgmental listening to help you hear your own voice. I invite you to be as direct and unedited as you are comfortable. I believe speaking your full truth is the best place to start. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (CA), a Licensed Professional Counselor (CO) and a Nationally Board-Certified Music Therapist. I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Therapy from Utah State University in 2002 followed by an internship at Bethany Children’s Home in Pennsylvania. I graduated with a Master of Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix in 2007. I have worked in a variety of settings: University Neuropsychiatric Institute, Inpatient Units, Addiction Recovery Utah Youth Village, In-Home Crisis Team Project Reality, Outpatient Addiction Services and Dual-Diagnosis Arbour Counseling Services, Outpatient Services, Intensive-Outpatient Program Groups Hospice by the Bay, Children and Teens in Hospice Established Private Practice in 2012-2019 in San Francisco. I encourage you to interview your therapist to find a good fit. Feel free to connect with me. We can talk about what kind of support you seek. I will do my best to answer any questions you might have about this process. I believe that having someone to listen objectively can be very helpful. I appreciate the courage it takes to ask for help. Take good care. Hope to hear from you.

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Dr. Tabitha Thompson

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW,EdD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteem
10 years of experience

Dr. Tabitha Thompson is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who finds value in helping others see the strengths in themselves and achieve their personal and professional goals. In working with clients, the experience is a partnership in which Dr. Thompson works collaboratively with client to ensure the outcome is in the best interest of all involved stakeholders. Her passion is using relationship building techniques to work with people of varying ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Some of her personal values that influence lifelong decisions and clinical approaches are honesty and accountability. She truly believe that honesty should be the primary response for all situations that arise. With honesty and integrity, she is able model the exact behavior for others. There are two Gandhi quotes that most correlate with her personal philosophy and therapeutic style. They are “the difference between what we do and what we are capable of doing would suffice to solve most of the world’s problems” and “happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” These are profound statements that encompass her personal values of honesty, work ethic and accountability as it relates to clinical guidance. As she continue to develop herself as a transformational leader and clinical therapist, Dr. Thompson continues to make every effort to improve in the eight emotional intelligence competencies including developing others, teamwork, collaboration, organized awareness, building bonds, visionary leadership, empathy, respect and open communication to create a positive and supportive learning environment. Her human relations approach is to utilize effective communication with all involved parties. This includes making sure all relevant parties are informed of all necessary information and time is permitted to discuss all pertinent opinions. An important part of communication is not only sharing your opinion but also being able to listen attentively to others’ viewpoints. This model best describes her ongoing attempts to use effective communication and a positive attitude to fulfill the client’s goals related to therapy and the best possible outcomes for all clients. In any given situation, clients should also expect Dr. Thompson to listen attentively to their opinions and always try to understand all angles of the situation. She will always advocate for the right decision to be made for the well-being and safety of all clients as well as provide opportunities for further education along the way. She is dedicated to developing client specific treatment plans and working collaboratively to create realistic expectations for clients so long term goals can be achieved. It takes great strength and an incredible amount of courage to seek help and take the first steps toward being your best you! I look forward to working collaboratively with you as you take these first steps! Also experienced in: Relationship issues , Family conflicts , Trauma and abuse , Grief , Parenting issues , Anger management , Self esteem , Bipolar disorder , Coping with life changes , ADHD , Adoption and Foster Care , Blended Family Issues , Caregiver Issues and Stress , Communication Problems , Family Problems , Guilt and Shame , Posttraumatic Stress , Self-Love Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy

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Henry Ostendorf

Offering therapy in CA
License: LPCC
LGBTGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am Henry William Ostendorf. My gender pronouns are He/Him/His. I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in San Francisco, California with over twenty years of experience counseling others to better cope with psychological and social distress. I'm a helper by nature. I consider myself to be respectful, kind, empathetic and resourceful. I limit my practice to male-identified clients. Cisgender and Transgender males of any sexual orientation. Please note my schedule is often more open than just the slots shown. If you wish a specific day or time just ask. I will book you anytime if my schedule (and life) allow. Unfortunately the platform sometimes makes an error and a female subscriber will be matched with me. If you notice this has happened it is easily rectified by clicking on the "change counselor " link where you will see other available counselors to choose from. I practice Client Centered and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy sometimes known as CBT. This type of counseling has been clinically proven to provide positive therapeutic outcomes. With CBT you may feel better, quicker, and with less financial investment than from other types of talk therapy. There is also evidence that CBT may be as effective as medication in treating anxiety and depression problems, Psychotherapy is used to facilitate optimal adjustment, either to situations of ongoing stress, such as chronic mental or physical illness or in acutely stressful situations as, for example, following the death of a spouse or loved pet. Such supportive therapy may consist of a number of regular weekly contacts. These sessions may be frequent and brief, or more structured up to 30-45 minutes over a period of time chosen by the participant. It is my sincere goal is to assist you to become self-sufficient and independent as possible. Our work starts with our identification of your goals, examining and understanding the barriers you face (which may be physical, social and/or psychological) and developing a realistic plan to move forward. This often requires changing old patterns of behavior that no longer works for you and reevaluation of our plan as new information comes forward. An action-oriented focus does not, however, preclude us from taking the smallest of steps -- especially as we begin our work together. Psychotherapy involves the use of many and varied psychological techniques including: • Empathy • Sympathetic Listening • Confiding Relationship • Ventilation and Expression of Emotional Material • Encouragement • Opportunities for Corrections • Explanation and Education • Appropriate Reassurance • Guidance • Practical Help • Behavior Modification I also specialize in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling and Pet Loss Grief. Vocational rehabilitation is a process which enables persons with functional, psychological, developmental, cognitive and emotional impairments or health conditions to overcome barriers to accessing, maintaining or returning to employment or other useful occupation. As a Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with the California Department of Rehabilitation I've assisted over 800 disabled job seekers on their path to employment. My clients have included those with mood disorders, depression, anxiety, alcohol and other drug issues, traumatic brain injury, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders, carpal tunnel and other repetitive strain disorders, and developmental issues. Many of my clients have come from the LGBT+ community. For over two years I've facilitated a monthly pet loss support group for the Peninsula Humane Society in Burlingame, CA. Loss of a pet is disenfranchised grief. Family, friends and coworkers often don't understand the depth of loss experienced when a pet dies. The inability for others to hear and understand one's grief can prolong or stunt the healing process. I understand and work to provide space to ventilate this sorrow and express the deep love one has for their lost friend.

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Marielle Beniquez

Offering therapy in CA
License: MS,NCC,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! My name is Marielle Beniquez, I am an NBCC-National Certified Counselor and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of California. I acknowledge that the process of therapy can be very intimidating. It is a challenge to open ourselves up to feel vulnerable. That is why my approach prioritizes helping you feel safe in a non-judgmental, authentic space. I welcome all those who seek healing, understanding, and peace without any regard to race, color, national origin, sex, creed, handicap, or sexual preference. A holistic approach to mental health and wellness is my primary goal. Integrative psychotherapy is fundamental to promote healing on all levels: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, and mental. Having a sound mind, body, and spirit is a paradigm that signifies the wheel of wellness in its continuum, enriching the various aspects of life for optimal growth and a sense of well-being. First, cultivating our spirituality promotes resiliency, equilibrium, and wellness. It provides a moral compass that affects our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. As the Serenity Prayer of St. Francis Assisi goes, “God, give me the courage to change the things I can, peace to accept the things I cannot, and wisdom to know the difference..,” renders faith and renewed strength. Second, faith-based counseling along with various treatment modalities is essential to effective therapeutic prevention and intervention. I support the therapeutic approach which best meets my client’s needs that fosters healing, life-giving grace, hope, peace, and love. Lastly, “There is a source within us that always works to bring things into the light.” ~ John A. Sanford I am a USAF veteran, military spouse, and civilian with over 10 years of experience. Specializing in Depression, Anxiety, Stress/Adjustment Relationship Issues, Military Transition/Lifestyle, Grief and Loss utilizing fact-based clinical interventions to include Cognitive/Behavioral, ACT, Spiritually Informed/Faith-based, and Solution-Focused Brief therapies. I look forward to working with you and become part of your life as a mentor and counselor.

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Sonia Gallegos

Offering therapy in CA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in California and Arizona with over 5 years of experience working as a therapist for a government agency. I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, personality issues, and relationship challenges. My approach involves evidence based treatment and solution focused. I will individualize sessions and a treatment plan with your unique goals we explore together. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of this season in your life.

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Amye Cole

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Susan Johnson

Offering therapy in CA
5 years of experience

I have over 5 year of practicing therapy with clients who experienced homelessness, substance use disorders, domestic abuse, and other forms of trauma, as well as anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. Using practical mindfulness and other evidence-based forms of treatment, including Brainspotting, my goal is to support and guide you as you discover how to heal. If you are seeking coping skills, greater wellbeing and self-efficacy, I encourage you to take the difficult next step and ask for help. The only expert on you, is you; my job is to help you learn how to use the abilities you may not yet have discovered.

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Nanette Tangkeko

Offering therapy in CA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, confidence, and recovery from narcissistic abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling life and take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Rosy Provino

Offering therapy in CA
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
17 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California with 17 years of professional work experience. I graduated from Cal Poly Humboldt in 2006 with a Master's in Social Work. My therapeutic approach is straightforward and collaborative, focusing on practical solutions and strategies to help people overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, parenting problems, and career challenges. I enjoy helping people explore their strengths, identify goals, and develop practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and achieving personal growth. I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual. Whether you are going through a transition, struggling to manage anxiety, working to create boundaries, or are hoping to get more deeply in touch with your authentic self, you have come to the right place. I look forward to working with you.

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Timothy Malone

Offering therapy in CA
LGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in California with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have a passion for working with first responders and veterans. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in National City

Finding the best therapist close by in National City can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in National City. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in National City, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in National City or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater National City area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of National City, elsewhere in San Diego, or in the greater state of California.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the National City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed National City therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in National City due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in National City may not take health insurance, some in the state of California may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of California you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in National City, California working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in National City above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in National City helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified National City therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a National City therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A National City therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in CA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 91951 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a National City counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A National City licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in National City, California can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

National City has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of National City.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in National City:

91950, 91951, 92136

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